Chicken schnitzel is without a doubt a beloved dish known for its crispy, golden-brown crust and tender, juicy meat. Himmel’s Chicago, a renowned German restaurant in Chicago, is famous for its schnitzel, which was featured on NBC Chicago, thanks to Carol Himmel’s recipe demonstration. In this article, we’ll surely guide you through the step-by-step process of making this famous NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe, explore its origins, and provide plenty of tips and variations to help you make the perfect schnitzel at home.
Part 1: Introduction to NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe
1. The Origins of Chicken Schnitzel
The schnitzel has its roots in Austrian and German cuisines. Traditionally made with veal (known as Wiener Schnitzel), chicken schnitzel has become a popular variation across the world. The dish is a simple, yet satisfying, meal that involves coating thinly pounded meat in breadcrumbs and frying it to crispy perfection. Its popularity has spread globally due to its delicious taste and ease of preparation.
Chicken schnitzel is more than just a fried chicken dish; it’s a culinary experience that combines the best of German cooking with the convenience of modern kitchens.
Additionally, for those interested in exploring more historical dishes, check out the History of Schnitzel to understand its cultural significance.
2. Carol Himmel’s Famous Schnitzel
Carol Himmel, the chef behind Himmel’s Chicago, gained recognition when she shared her recipe for chicken schnitzel on NBC Chicago. The recipe quickly became popular because it is both simple and full of flavor, using basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Himmel’s schnitzel is known for its crispy exterior and perfectly tender chicken, making it a staple at the restaurant and a favorite among home cooks. With Carol’s easy-to-follow recipe, anyone can recreate this mouth-watering dish in their own kitchen.
You can also watch the NBC Chicago cooking demo where Carol Himmel walks through the recipe here.
3. Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
In order to make Carol Himmel’s schnitzel, you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
Tools:
- Meat mallet (to pound the chicken)
- Three shallow dishes (for flour, eggs, and also breadcrumbs)
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Tongs for flipping the chicken
In case you’re looking for creative ways to make use of pantry staples like breadcrumbs, consider these Sourdough Discard Recipes for more inspiration.
Part 2: Step-by-Step Instructions to Make NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe
4. Preparing the Chicken
Step 1: Flattening the Chicken
Begin by pounding each chicken breast with a meat mallet until it’s about ¼ inch thick. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and quickly. Flattening the chicken is crucial to getting that signature thin schnitzel texture.
Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken
Lightly season each chicken breast with salt, pepper, in addition to a sprinkle of garlic powder for added flavor. You can also add a pinch of paprika for a subtle smoky taste.
Tip: Ensure the chicken is dry before you start breading it, as this helps the coating stick better.
Step 3: Setting Up the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and also one with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each piece of chicken first in flour, then dip it in the egg wash, and finally press it into the breadcrumbs until well-coated.
Looking for other flavorful dishes to pair with schnitzel? Try this refreshing Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe for a light side.
5. Frying the Schnitzel
Step 1: Heating the Oil
Pour enough oil into a skillet in order to cover the bottom of the pan (about ¼ inch deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F, or until a breadcrumb dropped into the oil sizzles immediately.
Step 2: Frying the Schnitzel
Carefully place the breaded chicken schnitzels in the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the schnitzel is golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan—fry in batches if necessary.
Step 3: Draining and Resting
Once the schnitzel is golden and crispy, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let the schnitzel rest for a few minutes before serving, to allow the breading to crisp up even more.
Looking for ways to enhance your meals with perfectly cooked meats? Try this Chicken Brine Recipe for extra juicy results.
6. Variations of Chicken Schnitzel
Carol Himmel’s recipe is classic, but you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations:
- Gluten-Free Schnitzel: Substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Herb-Crusted Schnitzel: Add chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the breadcrumbs for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Schnitzel: Mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the flour for a schnitzel with a kick.
Additionally, for more gluten-free cooking ideas, check out this Gluten-Free Dessert Recipe for a sweet ending to your meal.
Part 3: Serving Suggestions and Pairings of NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe
7. How to Serve Chicken Schnitzel
Chicken schnitzel is best served with simple sides that complement its crispy texture. Some traditional pairings include:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a soft contrast to the crunchy schnitzel.
- German Potato Salad: A tangy, vinegar-based potato salad adds brightness to the dish.
- Israeli Salad: For a lighter option, serve the schnitzel with a refreshing Israeli salad, which balances the richness of the fried chicken.
In case you’re a fan of pairing schnitzel with refreshing salads, consider trying this Israeli Salad Recipe for a zesty side.
8. Beverage Pairings for Schnitzel
For beverages, schnitzel pairs beautifully with:
- Beer: Opt for a light German beer like a pilsner or hefeweizen, which complements the schnitzel without overpowering it.
- Wine: A crisp white wine like a Riesling is an excellent match, as its acidity cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.
Furthermore, for a deeper dive into perfect wine pairings, check out the history and profile of Riesling Wine.
Part 4: FAQs and Conclusion
9. FAQs About NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe
Can I bake schnitzel instead of frying it?
Yes! For a healthier version, you can surely bake schnitzel in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I keep my schnitzel crispy?
In order to maintain crispiness, make sure not to cover the schnitzel after frying, as steam will make it soggy.
Can I use different meats for schnitzel?
Absolutely! You can make schnitzel with veal, pork, or turkey instead of chicken.
How do I store leftover schnitzel?
Store leftover schnitzel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. In order to reheat, bake in the oven to retain crispiness.
10. Conclusion: Why You Should Try NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe
Last but not least, Carol Himmel’s chicken schnitzel recipe is a timeless dish that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. In addition, with its adaptable nature, you can customize the dish to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
Want more creative recipe ideas? Explore this What Can You Do with Sourdough Discard article for innovative kitchen hacks.